Home / Cricket / Ashes 2023, 5th Test - Day 2: Talking Points

Ashes 2023, 5th Test - Day 2: Talking Points

It was a fitting and exciting day of Test cricket that kept fans at the edge of their seats at the Kennington Oval.

By Omar | Jul 28, 2023 | 2 Min Read

In a thrilling day of Test cricket at the Kennington Oval, Despite facing a tricky situation midway through the day, Australia managed to secure a lead of 12 runs. The contest swung like a pendulum, starting in favour of Australia during the first session. Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne showed great composure, countering the lateral movement off the surface. However, Marnus was the only wicket to fall before lunch, and Usman Khawaja was dismissed by Stuart Broad in the second session.

The second session belonged entirely to the English attack. Australia seemed to be in a solid position at lunch, but things took a dramatic turn in the following two hours. In just 24 overs, the English side claimed five wickets, with Travis Head failing to perform while Mitch Marsh and Alex Carey showed glimpses of elegance but couldn’t capitalize. The English team created numerous chances and gained control during this session.

However, the final session saw a remarkable shift in momentum as Australia batted with determination throughout. Once again, it was the reign of Steve Smith at the Kennington Oval. He played an exceptional innings, reaching an average of 100 at this venue with a valiant knock of 71 runs. There was a controversial run-out chance involving Smith, but it was clarified that Bairstow had dislodged one bail before grabbing the ball, and Smith’s bat was just inside the crease in time.

Australian captain Pat Cummins provided excellent support to Smith, and together they formed a crucial partnership of 54 runs from 103 deliveries. Then, Todd Murphy took over after Smith’s departure, showcasing a brilliant display by smashing three sixes off Mark Wood’s bowling with impressive pull shots, surprising the spectators. Murphy’s 34 off 39 and Cummins’ 36 off 86 boosted Australia’s total to 295, giving them a lead of 12 runs. It was a fitting and exciting day of Test cricket that kept fans at the edge of their seats at the Kennington Oval.